Do's and Don'ts of Child Custody and Visitation

DO'S AND DON'TS OF CUSTODY AND VISITATION

1. Never talk (or let someone else talk) about visitation with or in front of the children.
2. Never talk (or let someone else talk) about support with or in front of the children.
3. Never complain about money in front of the children.
4. Never say or suggest the children should ask the other parent to have them buy something. If your child needs/wants something that you cannot afford, call the other parent and talk about how to purchase it.  Additionally, as strong as your desire is to give everything you can to your children, they don't need everything.  It's okay for kids to go without things and it does not reflect badly upon you as a parent. 
5. Don't ever chagrin the other parent buying something for your children. Be happy that your children got something that made them happy or excited, don't be jealous that it came from the other parent.  Remember, kids are smart and getting them things does not buy their love, it buys their attention.
6. Never talk (or let someone else talk) about court with or in front of the children.
7. Never talk (or let someone else talk) badly about the parent to or in front of the children.
8. If a parent doesn't show up for visitation, tell the kids that you are sure something came up that couldn't be avoided and assure them that their parent still loves them.
9. If parent comes by to pick them up for visitation and they don't want to go or are hesitant to go, assure them that they will have fun, it is important that they spend time with their father and that you want them to enjoy this time with their father.
10. Medical Appointments.

• If you are the custodial parent, ask up front if there are days & times that are better for the non-custodial parent to arrange for medical appointments. Assure the other parent that in the future you will do the best you can schedule appointments for that time.  If you are the non-custodial parent, send this infor
• Always share medical information & appointments with the other parent, even if it seems minor. If the child does have to go to a doctor, provide the other parent with the date and time of the appointment.